Tuesday 25 June 2013

Protein Packed Veggie Chili


Not sure you could get more meat-free protein in this dish. This chili includes, as usual, a lot of beans. It also includes 'veggie ground' (a meat-free substitute for ground beef) and a ton of quinoa! Triple threat chili! This dish is also effortlessly vegan, provided you don't top it with a handful of cheddar. But I know you wouldn't, it's too good on it's own. ;)

Ingredients

1 red onion, sliced or chopped
1/2 green pepper, chopped
1 pkg veggie ground
1 tbsp chili powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder (or fresh garlic if you have it handy)
1 huge can diced tomatoes
1 can black beans
1 can red kidney beans
1 (small) can of tomato paste
1/2 cup red quinoa

Ok, here's where it gets tricky.

1. First, cook the onion and green pepper on medium heat in a large pot until fragrant & softened.
2. THEN add the spices & veggie ground and let cook for a couple more minutes.

3....THEN...literally add the rest in, one ingredient at a time (down my list). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and allow to simmer for approximately 30 minutes.

Optional to top with avocado, cilantro and green onion!

TIP: Even better consumed the next day. It continues to thicken overnight.



Sunday 9 June 2013

Spinach Ricotta Enchiladas




NEW POST! I am *trying* as always, to be healthy and not make cheese-slathered meals or buttery baked goods. I did cave earlier this week and bake some raspberry-coconut-lemon scones. Luckily, my colleagues at work eat things like that and happily consumed them all (I might have taken a couple...)

Today, spinach enchiladas. Not covered in cheese. just filled with it (but not all that much)... I also opted not to pour enchilada sauce all over them, as is the default. So alas, I ended up with something moderately healthy. Spinach, onions, tomatoes, garlic, spices, black beans, and some ricotta, all rolled up tight into whole wheat tortillas and baked. Not bad, right?


Changes for next time? Homemade garlicky guacamole for dipping :)